"EPA: Agency Reminds Employees To Watch What They Say"

"U.S. EPA wants its employees to be mindful about what they say in their official capacity.

The agency's Office of General Counsel sent out an email, dated Feb. 3, with ethics reminders for EPA employees. The message, obtained by E&E News, said agency workers are free to speak their minds but told them to not forget federal ethics rules and to make sure to avoid offensive behavior.

'Many EPA employees have inquired about the possible ethical implications of sharing your personal opinions on science, policy or politics, particularly in social media,' said the email, adding, 'You as a United States citizen are free to express yourself about matters that are important to you, including ones that relate to EPA. Your ability to express yourself includes doing so in the workplace and in personal social media.'

Yet as federal employees, EPA workers need to watch what they say in their official positions and make sure they comply with agency rules barring 'abusive or offensive' conduct."

Kevin Bogardus reports for Greenwire February 9, 2017.